
The Pokémon TCG scene is exploding in 2025, with the Mega Evolution series launch catapulting sets like Phantasmal Flames and Prismatic Evolutions to new heights. Whether you’re a fan filling binders with stunning artwork or an investor eyeing 30-50% ROI, knowing the best Pokémon cards to collect in 2025 is key. From Eeveelution SIRs in Prismatic Evolutions to Unova BWRs in Black Bolt/White Flare, these cards blend nostalgia, rarity, and meta power. At CardChill.com, we’ve sifted TCGPlayer’s latest data, collector trends, and expert picks (like Beckett’s 2025 highlights) to rank the top 10. Modern chases like Umbreon ex SIR ($1,012) dominate, while classics like Base Set Charizard hold steady. Explore our Pokémon TCG sets for previews or Pokémon cards for listings.
Why 2025 Is the Perfect Year to Collect Pokémon Cards
The TCG market hit $2.2B in 2024 (up 25% YoY), with 2025 fueled by Mega Evolution’s low-print SIRs (1:216 pulls) and the 30th anniversary hype. Prismatic Evolutions’ Eevee focus and Black Bolt/White Flare’s Unova revival are collector magnets, with SIRs appreciating 20% monthly. Nostalgia drives vintage (Base Set Charizard up 30%), while modern chases like Mega Lucario ex ($719) offer quick flips. Low Wave 1 prints mean scarcity, but reprints stabilize prices—buy now for peak value.
Top 10 Best Pokémon Cards to Collect in 2025
Ranked by current raw value and growth potential (TCGPlayer, November 2025), these are the must-collects:
- Umbreon ex SIR from Prismatic Evolutions ($1,012) Dark Stellar Tera ex – Eevee hype meets ethereal SIR art. Up 50% since January; PSA 10s at $1,800+. The ultimate modern showpiece.
- Mega Lucario ex SIR from Mega Evolution ($719) Fighting Mega ex – Aura-flared SIR art dominates binders. 25% monthly surge; meta king for collectors and players alike.
- Shiny Charizard ex from Paldean Fates ($312) Fire Shiny ex – Black-scale SIR glows with Charizard appeal. 28% growth; an evergreen fan favorite.
- Mew ex SIR from Paldean Fates ($654) Psychic Shiny ex – Mythical SIR with psychic aura. 35% since launch; perfect for anniversary collections.
- Greninja ex SIR from Twilight Masquerade ($354) Water/Dark ex – Ninja starry SIR art. 25% yearly rise; meta ninja with stunning visuals.
- Pikachu ex SIR from Surging Sparks ($331) Electric ex – Tropical SIR with starry backdrop. 35% ROI potential; Pikachu never goes out of style.
- Victini BWR from White Flare ($423) Fire ex – Monochromatic BWR art + Unova revival. 40% ROI; a nostalgic masterpiece.
- Lillie’s Clefairy ex SIR from Journey Together ($156) Fairy ex – Alolan nostalgia sleeper. 45% ROI; budget-friendly with heart.
- Raging Bolt from Temporal Forces ($68) Electric/Dragon ex – Ancient storm SIR. 40% ROI; meta riser with epic artwork.
- Squirtle SIR from Stellar Crown ($80) Water illustration rare – Kanto Terastal starter. 50% ROI; the best budget collectible.
2025 Collection Strategy Table
| Card | Raw Price | + Since Launch | Monthly Gain | Projected 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umbreon ex SIR | $1,012 | 50% | +4% | $1,315 |
| Mega Lucario ex SIR | $719 | 25% | +5% | $1,078 |
| Mew ex SIR | $654 | 35% | +3% | $850 |
| Shiny Charizard ex | $312 | 28% | +4% | $450 |
| Greninja ex SIR | $354 | 25% | +5% | $500 |
How to Build Your 2025 Collection: Step-by-Step
- Start with Budget SIRs Under $200 Grab Squirtle ($80) or Raging Bolt ($68) from Wave 1 shortages.
- Prioritize Artwork & Nostalgia Focus on Eevee, Charizard, and Unova themes for long-term appeal.
- Grade PSA 10 for Display Even non-investors love a slab—doubles visual impact and value.
- Diversify Your Binder
- 50% Modern SIRs (Prismatic, Mega)
- 30% Nostalgia (Paldean Fates, White Flare)
- 20% Budget Sleepers (Journey Together, Stellar Crown)
- Join the Community Trade locally or on Discord—complete sets faster.
Final Verdict: Collect What You Love, Win Big
The best Pokémon cards to collect in 2025 are modern SIRs under $500 with art, nostalgia, and meta power. Top fan pick: Umbreon ex SIR ($1,012) – pure beauty. Top budget pick: Squirtle SIR ($80 → $120) – starter magic.
Don’t wait—Wave 1 is flying off shelves.
Ready to start? 👉 Grab Squirtle SIR at Pokémon cards















